Psychological characteristics of powerlifters in competitive activity

This study explores psychological characteristics of powerlifters and their impact on competitive performance. It examines anxiety, motivation, and self-regulation. The initial phase identified differences among novices (<2 years, n=49), amateurs (2–5 years, n=49), and professionals (>5 years, n=50). The experimental phase (2025, Moscow Regional Powerlifting Federation) evaluated an 8-week program for the experimental group (EG, n=49), including breathing techniques, visualization, and cognitive affirmations. The control group (CG, n=49) followed standard training. In the EG, situational anxiety decreased from 46.7±6.8 to 40.1±5.9 points (p<0.001), intrinsic motivation increased from 56.8±5.7 to 61.3±5.1 points (p=0.001), and self-regulation improved: distractions reduced from 3.4±1.1 to 2.2±0.7 times (p<0.001), reactions to judges’ decisions weakened from 1.7±0.6 to 1.2±0.5 points (p=0.007). A correlation between reduced distractions and performance improvement (r=-0.62, p=0.004) was confirmed. Interviews indicated high technique approval. Recommendations were developed.